If you have ever been captivated by tales of fierce samurai and feudal warlords, you will love Takayama.
Hida-Takayama is said to be one of few cities in Japan to retain its medieval character, particularly in the timber architecture of the old town that dates back to the Edo* era (1603 -1868). A period when the fragmented country transitioned from turbulence under warring chieftains to centralized imperial rule..
There is no better place than Takayama Jinya, the only surviving regional government office (of the sixty built across Japan at the time), to get a feel for how the representatives of the powerful Shogunate functioned. It also served as the governor’s residence and was in continuous use from 1692 to 1969 when it’s importance as a ‘Historicall National Asset’ was realised.
Come join me on a tour of the Jinya and its many tatami covered rooms.
But don’t forget to take off your shoes before you enter.
*The word Edo refers to the city of Tokyo.
Love the meeting hall
I loved Takayama when we went. Your posts are great! I am now following your blog
Thank you! Much appreciated 🙂
So elegant, and sophisticated, even torture! Then there’s the rocks weighing down the roof shingles … 🙂
🙂 I thought that was a rather primitive solution too, especially for Japan!
Perhaps they’re going for historical authenticity? 🙂
Perhaps! 🙂
The life status and classes are very evident to what you’ve shown here. I’ve never seen much about the life of the wealthy, and with power over there, even on TV or even having gone in Okinawa, Japan. So thanks for taking us there. The torture room, I would want to go in there … but as an expectator. Er, maybe not, too harsh to handle. 😀
I hadn’t researched Japan at all before I left and like I am wont to do, and knew little about their culture or lifestyle beyond my Shogun novels! The trip was an eyeopener and left me with a desire to revisit.
It all looks so contemporary, modern and clean but then they did seem to have a good handle on the staff. A wonderful series of shots Madhu!
Thank you Patti.
I love that wave pattern in the gravel, Madhu. I didn’t know it was for luck. I’d have it on my walls any day. What ingenious people they were. Those bunnies! A beautifully ‘choreographed’ piece, Madhu. Many thanks 🙂
Glad you enjoyed it Jo. Thank YOU 🙂